Hampton says Move Izzy inside.
Hall of Famer Dan Hampton would like to see the Bears shift Israel Idonije from left defensive end to tackle.
Idonije and right defensive end Julius Peppers tied for the team lead in sacks last season with eight. The Bears released veteran defensive tackle Tommie Harris at the end of the season, making him a free agent.
"Julius Peppers could rush the passer on Mars. God gave him a lot. He's big and he's got great ability," Hampton said. "I think they have basically done a poor job of utilizing Israel's abilities. I'd put him in the three (technique) and just build a fire under him and say 'go.' He's 275 or 280 … at 290 he could be a force. He's a lot better than, you know, 'Voodoo' Harris. He would make one play a game and everyone thought he could play."
Idonije seized the starting left end position last season after Alex Brown and Mark Anderson were released.
"I would love to see (Idonije) inside. Put Corey Wootton and Peppers on the ends," Hampton said. "The guys are 6-7 bookends. Wootton can play. He's going to be a player. Put Anthony (Adams, who is a free agent) and Israel (inside) and just say 'go.' "
fmitchell@tribune.com
Twitter@kicker34
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Comments (2)
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bgm1906 at 9:17 AM July 25, 2011 Just because they moved him outside doesn't mean that's his best fit. With Hampton being a hall of famer, he may know a little more than u, me and possibly the entire Bears coaching staff. So, why question if he follow's the Bears? We obviously have a whole in the middle now that Tommie Harris is gone, and Wotten is a beast (Forgive that I am fellow wildcat!). I think Danimal is making sense...
darragh.patrick.quinn at 8:07 AM July 25, 2011 Din't they already make him drop weight to move him outside? Does Hampton follow the Bears or what?
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